Duddy resignation another set back for BHP Billiton Caroona coal mine plan

"BHP Billiton's attempt to play the friendly mining company committed to helping the Caroona community is not looking convincing", Ms Rhiannon said.

"Mr Duddy, a fifth generation local farmer, resigned because of concerns that the Caroona Coal Project CCC is being used to the detriment of local farmers.

"The resignation of Mr Duddy from the Caroona Coal Project CCC makes it much harder for BHP Billiton to use the CCC as a way to justify mining this valuable agricultural land.

"I have received information today that there could be further resignations from the Caroona Coal Project CCC.

"BHP Billiton's misleading tactics have also been exposed in emails sent to my office. Mr Stephen David, General manager of the Caroona Coal Project, stated earlier this month that it is standard procedure for BHP Billiton to collect a water sample before and immediately after exploration drilling.

"In a response to Mr David, local farmer Ben Evan stated that drilling took place on his property with no warning given and that no request was made by BHP Billiton to access nearby bores to test the water.

"BHP Billiton has consistently argued that the aquifers in the area where they want to mine will not be damaged. The community consultation process for the Caroona project has been revealed as a farce.

"The Greens have called on the Minister for Mining to put a moratorium on any more exploration drilling until BHP Billiton follows the rules and consults with the community.

"These latest antics by BHP Billiton raises the obvious question of why is this mining giant unwilling to follow the rules", Ms Rhiannon said.

Contact: Lee Rhiannon 9230 3551, 0427 861 568